World Rabies Day

On September 28, the importance for vaccinating pets against rabies became a global issue. World Rabies Day is in its fifth year of educating the public worldwide on rabies and the prevention of the potentially fatal disease.

Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It infects all warm-blooded animals, including people. In the United States, human cases of rabies are rare, only a few each year, but with rabid animals found in most states, the risk remains. Most reported cases of rabies in the U.S. occur in wild animals, most often raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats, and coyotes.

Rabies is preventable and controllable. Here are some of the ways you, your family, and your pet can stay safe.

— Vaccinate your pets regularly, even if they live indoors
— Help minimize the stray animal problem in your community by having all of your pets spayed and neutered
— Avoid contact with wild animals. Keep garbage and pet food inside or in secure containers; Never try to keep a wild animal as a pet, or nurse a sick one back to health
— If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary care right away
— If you are bitten by a wild animal or an unvaccinated pet, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately

Education and prevention are key when it comes to rabies, so ask your veterinarian what you can do to protect your pet and your family. Ask what vaccinations are appropriate for your pet based on your location and your pet’s lifestyle and how PurinaCare can help cover the cost of protecting the health and wellness of your pet.